Giorgio Armani: Fashion’s Timeless Icon and Legend

As the world mourns the passing of Giorgio Armani at the age of 91, it’s time to celebrate the life and enduring legacy of a fashion genius—an icon whose influence reshaped elegance for generations.

A Legacy Founded on Elegance and Vision

Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, Armani initially pursued studies in medicine and photography. He entered the fashion world working as a window dresser and buyer, before rising to prominence under Nino Cerruti. In 1975, together with his partner Sergio Galeotti, he launched Armani S.p.A., funding it with just $10,000 from selling their Volkswagen.

His breakthrough came with his signature soft-shouldered, unlined jackets and minimalist, relaxed silhouette—contrasting sharply with the stiff tailoring of the time. This new aesthetic immediately resonated, both in business circles and in the Hollywood spotlight.

Redefining Power and Style

When Richard Gere donned an Armani suit in American Gigolo (1980), the world took notice. The designer's elegant, pared-back look became an essential symbol of the modern man—and woman.

Armani’s designs transformed women’s professional attire in the 1980s, introducing the now-iconic power suit—crafting garments that provided both grace and empowerment in the workplace.

An Empire Beyond Fashion

Under his leadership, the Armani brand expanded into an empire: ready-to-wear collections for men and women; sub-brands like Emporio Armani, Armani Privé, and Armani Casa; plus fragrances, cosmetics, home décor, restaurants, clubs, lifestyle goods, hotels, and sports ventures—including owning the renowned Olimpia Milano basketball team.

Financially, his empire was valued in the billions—often cited in excess of $10 billion. Armani remained fiercely independent, never listing his company publicly.

Honors, Values & Lasting Influence

Armani’s accolades include prestigious awards like the Neiman Marcus Award, CFDA Lifetime Achievement, Compasso d’Oro, Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of Italy, and France’s Legion of Honour.

His aesthetic philosophy—that true style lies in restraint, clarity, and timeless elegance—became a global reference. His work was even exhibited at the Guggenheim Museum in New York—the first time for a living designer—with extraordinary attendance.

Final Farewell & Global Tributes

Armani passed away peacefully in Milan, surrounded by loved ones. His fashion house confirmed he remained deeply committed to his work until his final days.

Tributes poured in from across industries:

Donatella Versace declared, "The world lost a giant today."

Julia Roberts called him “a true friend. A legend.”

Richard Gere remembered him as “a visionary … with the eyes and hand of a craftsman, and the soul of a painter.”

Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, praised his elegance and creativity that “brought lustre to Italian fashion and inspired the entire world.”